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Maryela joined the Chicago Jesuit Academy community in the summer of 2022. Prior to that, she spent 5 years working in the early childhood field on the west side of Chicago. Maryela studied elementary education at the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign. . She is currently teaching 3rd grade humanities and social studies at CJA.
Joanna holds a degree in Literary Studies and Education from Middlebury College. Upon graduating, she joined the Shady Hill School's Teacher Training Center (TTC) as an apprentice teacher. She taught in both a private school and a Boston public school during her apprentice year. During the TTC year, Joanna also worked to receive a Masters of Arts in Curriculum and Teaching from Boston University. She went on to teach at an all-boys school in Massachusetts for two years before moving to Chicago. Currently, Joanna serves as a Language Arts and Reading teacher on the 5th and 6th grade team at Chicago Jesuit Academy.
Br. Sean Barry, S.J. completed a B.S. in Mathematics from Loyola University Chicago before joining the Jesuits in 2013. As a Jesuit, he received his M.A. in Mathematics from St. Louis University in 2018. Then, for three years he taught math and theology at U of D Jesuit High School and Academy in Detroit while also coaching cross country and moderating the school's anime club. He comes to CJA after completing an MTS in scripture from the Jesuit School of Theology of Santa Clara University.
Thomas Beckley began his career as a midshipman at the United States Naval Academy. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Religion from Columbia University. While serving as an officer in Rome, Italy, he completed the first cycles of Philosophy and Theology at the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas. He has traveled throughout Europe and is fluent in Italian and German. He holds a Masters in Curriculum and Instruction from Loyola University Chicago and formerly taught Social Studies at Gordon Technical High School and coached cross country and track.
Caroline Bourjaily joined CJA's Development Operations Team in 2024. After growing up in the Chicagoland area, Caroline received her Bachelor's Degree in 2022 from John Carroll University in Cleveland, Ohio. She majored in Sociology & Criminology, as well as minored in Spanish and Peace, Justice, and Human Rights. Caroline has experience working with a variety of different nonprofits - working in roles related to data organization, strategic planning, fundraising, communications, and advocacy.
Thelma Breckenridge joined CJA in 2022. Prior to her time at CJA, she worked for organizations that served youths with career and trade opportunities. Thelma's passion is to educate and empower the next generation of young leaders. Three words that describe her are Inquisitive, Driven, and Passionate.
Donna Bronner joined the CJA community in the Fall of 2022. Prior to joining CJA as part-time faculty, she served as the full-time Speech Language Pathologist at Percy Julian Middle School for over 25 years in Oak Park-School District #97. Mrs. Bronner earned her Masters of Health Science in Communications Disorders from Governors State University. She also earned her clinical competency certification, or CCC's with licensure through American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and the State of Illinois. Mrs. Bronner holds a second Masters in Education Leadership with a Type 75 endorsement in Administration, and is currently enrolled in the SLPD program at Northwestern University. Mrs. Bronner is a Minister and Educational leader in her community where she founded a not-for-profit organization called "Bridge To Destiny" for the purpose of assisting & counseling women impacted by domestic violence. She enjoys spending time with family, reading, decorating, traveling, and creating programs for empowering others.
Keith Brooks is an active performing and recording drummer in the Chicago area. He gained an interest in drums at the age of two years while watching his uncle play every Sunday morning. He began formal training in elementary school in Oak Park and discovered jazz. The guidance he received in elementary, junior high and high school led to a Bachelor's of Music in Music Business from Elmhurst College and Masters Degree in Jazz Performance from DePaul University. At DePaul he studied with Bob Rummage. These degrees have led him to be a private drum instructor. He has traveled overseas to perform in The Czech Republic and Canada. He has shared the stage with a number of great Jazz musicians and composers such as Phil Woods, Benny Goldson, Steve Weist, Bill Holman, Warren Luening, Tom Scott, Patrick Williams, Gary Smulyan, Jeff Hamilton and Mark Colby. He is also currently the Minister of Music at the Chicago Salem M.B.H. Church in Chicago, where he instructs the choirs and musicians in Gospel music. He is currently endorsed by T-Cymbals and Scorpion Percussion (drum stick company).
Prince Brunt is a member of Chicago’s westside community, and a member of CJA’s 2015 class. After graduating from Hyde Park Academy, He worked in the restaurant, automotive, and retail industries. Prince is a lifelong Chicagoan and his favorite NBA team is the Lakers. He currently works in our 7th/8th grade science classrooms as a member of the programs team.
Chicago-based trumpeter Marques Carroll is a bold performer, a passionate educator, clinician and mentor. He is dedicated to preserving the authentic culture of Jazz and spreading his holistic love of music around the world. Born into a musical family in St. Louis, Marques began studying trumpet at the age of 8, through the influence of his grandfather and Jazz legend, Clark Terry. Marques studied music at DePaul University, graduating in 2001 with his BA in Jazz Studies Performance and his MA in Jazz Studies Performance in 2014. Marques has worked and shared the stage with Jazz artists like Carmen Bradford, Dee Dee Bridgewater, The Count Basie Orchestra, Etienne Charles, Christian McBride, Wynton Marsalis, Nicholas Payton, Meshell Ndegeocello, and others such as the late Aretha Franklin, Four Tops, Temptations, and the O'Jays. In addition to his prolific performing career, Marques is an accomplished educator. He cultivated a robust Jazz program for the Thornton Fractional South High School music department in the south suburbs of Chicago. He was the leading Jazz trumpet instructor for New Trier High School's music department for 16 years. He has worked with the Jazz Institute as a clinician throughout Chicago. He also regularly holds clinics and master classes around the country as well as universities, high schools and prestigious jazz festivals. Marques continues to educate students in music at UIC as a trumpet instructor and Jazz Combo director while working at CJA as a faculty member. He created the music program for Chicago Jesuit Academy and continues to develop the music program now in his 18th year. Marques is also an active board member for the arts program, BandWith Chicago located on the westside of Chicago and as the acting Program Director Consultant he is responsible for building programs and relationships with like minded arts programs for the community. His solo debut record, The Ancestors' Call, which was a Grammy Considered best Jazz album of the year in 2021 is now available everywhere along with his second album, Foundations which are both a part of his catalog at JMarq Records, his own record label supporting Chicago Jazz artists. Marques also received an Emmy for his contribution to the documentary, Invisible History: Middle Florida's Hidden Roots, on PBS. He is an active member of the Chicago Music Union and the Illinois Music Educators Association.
Gavorshey Childress is a native of Chicago's Southside community. He attended multiple high schools before landing at Amos Alonzo Stagg HS where he played basketball alongside NBA star Max Strus. After graduating from Stagg HS, he attended Illinois State University in Normal, IL. While attending Illinois State he was a member of the Women's basketball practice team and involved in other organizations throughout the campus. He majored in Recreation Management and later received his Master's degree in Recreation Administration with aspirations of becoming an athletic director. Throughout his time at Illinois State University, Gavorshey volunteered in a high school as a P.E. assistant and at various parks such as Moore Park in the Austin community. Gavorshey is passionate about being a role model for the next generation, and showing kids from rougher communities that the world has so much more to offer outside of their neighborhoods. Outside of work, Gavorshey still enjoys playing basketball in various gyms across the city.
Darryl Clayton is a native Chicagoan and a graduate from Englewood High School, Columbia College (B.A., Television Broadcasting) and the University of Chicago (MSW, SSA Program). He has over 15 years of direct services with children, youth, adults and families. Darryl's direct services career includes being a part-time gym teacher, a licensed child welfare specialist, a correctional youth counselor, an adolescent services coordinator, a family reconnection specialist, an assistant project director for a federal grant project and a clinical therapist. These experiences have allowed him to work with a wide variety of young people throughout the Chicagoland area to help them identify and process their needs while developing strategies for goal achievement and positive, strength-based, pro-social outcomes.
Danté Coker is a 2015 graduate of Thomas J.Corcoran High School on the south side of Syracuse, NY on Glenwood Avenue. After graduation from Corcoran, he went to Ithaca College in Ithaca, NY. While attending Ithaca College, he was a student athlete on the men's football team. He majored in Physical Education with the goal of becoming a physical education teacher and coach of a school. Danté returned home to Syracuse and worked as a Teaching Assistant, and boys' modified 7/8th grade basketball coach. He went on to complete a long term goal of becoming a personal trainer, where he earned his certification for personal training at Planet Fitness. Danté also has experience as a Life Coach where he worked with a caseload of 20 students from grades 9-12th to improve their success with academics and behavior.
Constantijn graduated from the University of Notre Dame with a degree in Neuroscience and Behavior on the pre-med track. There, he worked in the Del Valle lab, conducting research on Alzheimer's disease. He also played on the practice squad for the women's basketball team. Constantijn joined Chicago Jesuit Academy in 2024 as a math and science teacher.
Charlotte came to CJA with over 15 years of social and customer service experience. She worked with the Cook County Social Service Department within the Domestic Violence and Diversity Units. She was co-owner of Curtis & Curtis Mobile Notary Service where she focused on working with companies and clients notarizing various documents. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Law Enforcement Administration and a Master's degree in Sociology from Western Illinois University. She initially started her CJA career as the Administrative Assistant to the Principal in April of 2014 and now serves as the Director of Parent Partnership. Her son Amari is an alum of Chicago Jesuit Academy, and is a member of the graduating class of 2015.
Liz joined the High School Bridge team after teaching math, science, and social studies in Spanish at St. Procopius Dual Language School in Chicago for three years. Liz earned a bachelor's degree in psychology from ITESO, the Jesuit University of Guadalajara. After college, Liz joined the Jesuit Volunteer Corps in New York City, where she served as a community liaison for a year and has passionately and actively worked in education ever since.
Arieanna is a graduate of Harold Washington Community College where she received her associate's degree in elementary education. In her first year, she did a lot of observing and volunteering with younger educators. She was previously employed at Bath and Body Works as a sales associate. In the summer of 2022, Arieanna was blessed with the opportunity to join the CJA community and closely work with the 3rd and 4th grade students as an Instructional Assistant. She is devoted to successfully receiving her bachelor and master's degrees and becoming a younger grade level teacher in the future.
Meghan was born and raised in Chicago. She graduated from St. Ignatius College Prep. She then earned her undergraduate degree at Columbia College and her MA from University of Chicago. She then pursued teaching through the Erikson Institute's post-MA licensure program. She joined CJA in Summer 2023 and is proud to be a part of its mission!
Originally from Maryland, Ravae Duhaney attended the University of Maryland Baltimore County where she studied Dance and Elementary Education. Upon graduating, she joined Teach for America and relocated to Chicago to teach Pre-Kindergarten. She received a Masters of Science in Early Childhood Education from Dominican University and continued teaching children ages three to ten for a total of eight years in Chicago, Guatemala City, and Shanghai. Since joining CJA in 2019, she has served as a faculty member, Development Team member and Volunteer Coordinator. She now serves as CJA's Director of Talent.
Maria Eidietis came to Chicago in 1999 after graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Notre Dame. She taught middle school reading and language arts and earned a Masters of Humanities from the University of Chicago before joining the founding faculty of Chicago Jesuit Academy in 2005. After time away, Maria rejoined the faculty of CJA in 2018 and currently teaches 6th Grade Language Arts/Reading.
Michael Elsey, a Chicago native, holds a Master's in Philosophy from Catholic University of America and an MFA in Film and Video from Columbia College. With over three decades of experience, Michael joins Chicago Jesuit Academy from The Great Books Foundation, where he served in various roles including educational consultant, multimedia producer, instructional designer, online course content creator and specialist in the method of Shared Inquiry and inquiry-based approaches to engaged reading and critical thinking. His passion for fostering meaningful classroom discussions led him to his current role at Chicago Jesuit Academy, where he will work with 5th and 6th-grade boys teaching Humanities. Michael is also a published author, with his screenplays earning several prestigious awards. Currently working on his third novel, he brings a wealth of expertise and creativity to his endeavors in education and storytelling.
Lauren joined CJA in 2018. She started her career as a Teach For America corps member, and she taught fifth grade and middle school STEM for four years. In addition to teaching, she coached Western School of Science and Technology's soccer team to a state championship. Lauren is originally from Lexington, Kentucky, and she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology with a minor in Education, Schooling, and Society from the University of Notre Dame.
Andrea began her career as a certified public accountant with Crowe, LLP. She went on to hold financial and operations leadership roles at various nonprofit organizations in the areas of homelessness, disabilities and higher education. Andrea earned her BA in Accounting from St Mary's University, a certificate in nonprofit excellence from the University of Notre Dame and a certificate in K-12 education from the Art Institute of Chicago.
Haley Fischer comes to CJA after working as a Residential Counselor at Boys Hope Girls Hope, where she managed one of their boys' homes for four years. While working full time, she pursued her Masters in Social Work with a specialization in Leadership and Development and a sub-specialization in Group Work at Loyola University of Chicago and graduated in May of 2021.
Roger Garvert joined the Development Office at CJA in June of 2019, after over 30 years of experience in sales and engineering in the telecommunications and semiconductor industries. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering with high distinction from the University of Kansas, a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering from the University of Michigan, and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Colorado at Denver. He is an active volunteer at his church.
Gretchen Geerts-Melaniphy joined Chicago Jesuit Academy in 2019, after teaching in the Archdiocese of Chicago for 6 years. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Theology at Marquette University and her Masters in Elementary Education from Loyola University Chicago as part of the LU-CHOICE (Loyola University Chicago Opportunities in Catholic Education) program. She earned her Learning Behavior Specialist - I endorsement through Saint Xavier University and is looking forward to working with the students in the Learning Resource Center as a Math Interventionist.
Gerry Geyer joined CJA's team in the winter of 2015. Prior to CJA, he spent two decades in the futures industry, in addition to several positions in retail and office management.
Elizabeth is a licensed clinical social worker who holds a master’s degree (MSW) from The University of Chicago and an undergraduate degree (BSW) from the University of Kansas. Before joining the CJA team, she worked as a psychiatric social worker at Lurie Children’s Hospital on the inpatient psychiatry unit. Elizabeth also has experience as a pediatric social worker and foster care clinician while working with children and families across the Chicago area. Outside of work, she is a registered yoga teacher (RYT-200) and enjoys teaching yoga, reading, and playing beach volleyball. Elizabeth has a passion for providing trauma-informed and individualized social-emotional support in the classroom and in the community.
Andrea Goldin joined CJA's faculty in 2019 as the 7th Grade Language Arts and Reading Teacher. Prior to joining CJA, she graduated from Marquette University with a degree in Secondary Education and English in 2016. She began her career in education at Messmer Saint Rose in Milwaukee, WI. In her two years at Saint Rose, Andrea taught 7th Grade Literacy, Social Studies, and Religion classes and coached the Girls on the Run team. From 2018-2019, she completed the Master of Arts Program in the Humanities at The University of Chicago while working at the Behavioral Insights in Parenting Lab at The Harris School of Public Policy.
Madi began her career in education doing the Americorps program City Year where she quickly realized teaching was something she was passionate about and wanted to pursue. She then taught as a Special Education Teacher for 4 years in CPS at both the elementary and high school levels before deciding to join CJA as a High School Bridge Counselor. Outside of work she enjoys reading, writing, baking, Pilates and spending time with her community.
Alex Hess began his career as a tutor at an Upward Bound program where he discovered his passion for creating equity in education. From there, he moved to Saga Education where he tutored high school students in math inside of Chicago Public Schools. Joining CJA's High School Bridge Program in 2022, Alex brings his passion for justice and equity to the CJA team, helping alumni find their high school of best fit. He received his bachelor's in Philosophy from Loyola University Chicago in 2015. Outside of work, Alex likes to play D and D and all kinds of strategy games.
Armario Hill is a lifelong member of the Austin Community. He is a graduate of Charles A. Prosser Career Academy. He has worked in the travel industry, the United States Post Office and for the US Census Bureau. As the father of one of our alumni (Armario Hill, Jr.), Armario has volunteered countless hours at CJA before joining our staff.
Rebecca is native of north central Florida, where she completed her B.S. in Health Education & Behavior with the University of Florida in 2018. Upon graduation, Rebecca served for a year with the Jesuit Volunteer Corps as a campus minister at Cristo Rey Jesuit High School in Minneapolis, MN. She continued her work with the Jesuit tradition for an additional two years through high school parish ministry and middle school teaching at Holy Trinity Church & School near Georgetown University. Rebecca completed her Master of Social Work with the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2023. Through this program, Rebecca interned in local public schools, where she participated in Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)-based after-school programming at the elementary and middle school levels and worked in a student services office at the high school level. Rebecca is joyful about the values of spirituality, community, equity, and service and the promotion of human dignity and healthy family systems. She is grateful to have joined the intentional community of CJA in 2023 and to support students, families, and educators through the Nativity model of education.
Matthew Houlihan earned a Bachelor of Arts in History and a Master of Education from the University of Notre Dame. He taught in Mobile, Alabama and Champaign, Illinois before joining the CJA faculty in 2009. A former dean at CJA, he now serves as a full time faculty member in the social studies and science departments
Camilla Inman began her career as a science teacher in CPS and rowing coach for St. Ignatius College Prep before joining CJA as a High School Bridge Counselor. She graduated from Michigan State University with a Bachelor's in Biology and Secondary Education. She is currently pursuing a Master's degree in Youth Development from University of Illinois-Chicago. Outside of CJA, she spends her time coaching rowing for Recovery on Water, a team for breast cancer survivors.
Carole Kash joined CJA as a volunteer in January of 2018. She received a BS in Chemistry from Loyola in 1981, followed by an MBA in Finance also from Loyola in 1983. She then worked as a Vice President and Division Manager of Commercial Banking with American National Bank, followed by earning a JD from Chicago Kent in 1996. While raising her two children, she was a librarian at Holy Family Catholic Academy for ten years, along with fundraising and volunteering at several Chicago area non-profit organizations.
Jay Kemper joined CJA after three years of service with the human rights organization, Heartland Alliance. At Heartland, he taught and counseled immigrant and refugee youth while working to reunify them with their families. Jay is bilingual in Spanish and has worked with students across the globe, teaching at a grade school in Santiago, an orphanage in Buenos Aires, and a bilingual college-preparatory high school in Budapest. A native of Chicago, he holds an Honors Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Dayton magna cum laude.
Pamela Kiefer BSN, RN ("Nurse Pam") has been a Nurse for over 30 years with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Loyola University and experience working at Evanston Hospital, as a Pulmonary Nurse with NorthShore University Health Systems, with professional athletes of a Chicago professional sports team, and as an independent consultant for pharmaceutical companies developing new medications. She has worked as a School Nurse for over 15 years, with experience working with Pre-Kindergarten through High School & College age students, including Special Education . She is certified by the American Heart Association in CPR and First Aid and is an Illinois Department of Public Health Certified Vision and Hearing Screener. Pam is a member of the National Association of School Nurses and the Illinois State School Nurse Association. She grew up in Naperville and has lived in the Chicagoland area most of her life.
Abigail Kime began her career in education teaching English as a second language to children in South Korea. Upon returning to the United States, she settled in Chicago and continued to teach ESL courses to adults and served as the unofficial tech person. In 2013, she graduated from Loyola University with an M.Ed. in Educational Technology and has been working as the official tech person in schools ever since. She’s an ISTE and Google certified educator and has presented at Ed Tech conferences in IL and WI. In her free time, she abandons the tech to play soccer or relax with her husband and cat.
Colleen is from Evanston, Illinois and is a graduate of the University of Notre Dame. There she earned her Bachelor of Science in Preprofessional Studies and Sociology. Prior to attending Notre Dame, she attended St. Joan of Arc and Loyola Academy, forming her in the Jesuit, Catholic tradition. Following college graduation, Colleen continued her education through the University of Notre Dame's Alliance for Catholic Education (ACE) program, earning her M.Ed. in Elementary Education. She taught 4th grade in Austin, Texas for two years, while also running Student Council and coaching a STEAM program called Destination Imagination. Colleen is so grateful to be a part of the CJA family!
Sarah's passion for education started in childhood, and grew as she continued her undergraduate studies at University of Chicago and her Masters in Education at UIC. She has worn many hats in education, always working to ensure that all kids and adults have equitable access to excellent school experiences and post secondary opportunities. Prior to joining CJA, Sarah worked as Associate Director of Programs on the Teaching and Learning team at Achieving the Dream. She loves spending time with family and friends, being a mom, learning, kids and nature.
Katie is a native of Chicago's South Side. She earned her Bachelor's degree in English and Secondary Education from Bradley University before completing her Master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction at American College of Education. She has over a decade of experience in education, which includes both teaching and administrative experience. She is as passionate about baseball and animals as she is about education, and she enjoys watching the White Sox with her dog in her free time.
Helen received her Bachelors in Middle Childhood Education from Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio in 2018 and then went on to receive her Masters of Arts in Teaching from National Louis University in 2019. She started her teaching career in CPS in 2019 and has been teaching for the last 5 years around the Chicago area. She is excited to join CJA for the 2024 school year as a 5th and 6th grade Math and Science teacher.
Katie Kuhns is a faculty member and instructional coach. Originally from Omaha, Nebraska, she attended Creighton University, where she earned a degree in Justice and Society with a minor in Political Science. Katie then went on to earn her Masters of Education in Elementary Education from Loyola University Chicago through the LU-CHOICE service through teaching program.
Obed Liera Sanchez joined CJA in December of 2022 as a College and Career Persistence Counselor. A Chicago native and University of Illinois at Chicago graduate, he is an accomplished educator with experience in social service, higher education, project management, and diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. He has a strong dedication and commitment to leading students towards meaningful employment, providing trauma-informed support throughout different areas of focus, and developing effective programs and processes.He has worked in organizations such as Mercy Home for Boys and Girls, Erie Family Health Center, and the University of Illinois at Chicago which have all empowered his development of a diverse range of skills, including facilitating workshops and programs, managing teams, and coordinating various initiatives.
Joyce is a Chicago native. She received her BA in Studio Art from Denison University in 2014 and her MM in Music Production, Technology and Innovation at the Berklee College of Music at their Valencia campus in 2019. In her eight years of experience as an educator, Joyce served as an Americorps City Year member in the Englewood community at the Stagg School of Excellence from 2014 to 2015. She also served as an Title 1 Instructor and Teaching Artist through Discover Music Discover Life. Inc. from 2015 to 2024 in many private schools such as Oakdale Christian Academy, Daystar Academy, St. Margaret School of Scotland and more. Currently, Joyce is an active professional musician and visual artist in Chicago. In addition to being one of CJA's visual art instructors, Joyce is an active member and musician for the Ayodele Drum & Dance Company. Finally, Joyce is also the music director and an accompanist at the Hyde Park School of Dance.
Matthew Lynch began his career in education as a teacher at a federal prison in Virginia and a juvenile detention facility in Maryland. He later taught and coached at St. Ignatius Loyola Academy, a Jesuit Nativity middle school in Baltimore. Upon returning to his hometown of Chicago, Matthew worked as a teacher and administrator at St. Ignatius College Prep. He subsequently assembled and led the team that has founded Chicago Jesuit Academy. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Government from Georgetown cum laude and a Master of Business Administration from Washington University in St. Louis. He is a recipient of St. Ignatius College Prep's Alumni Medal, the Community Renewal Society's 35-under-35 Award, St. Josaphat Parish's Unity Award, and Georgetown University's Kraft Medal.
Karla received her Bachelor's degree in Health Studies, and Master's in Health Education and Promotion; from Walden University and will be pursuing her second Master's in Elementary Education in the fall of 2023. Her love for educating youth began 8 years ago at Chicago Public Schools as a Teacher Assistant. Her hobbies are reading books and listening to house music.
Fungai was born and educated in Zimbabwe and brings extensive teaching experience to his roles. He holds a Bachelors’ degree in English and Philosophy, a Diploma in Education, and a Master’s in Business Management. As the Deputy Head of Nagle House Catholic Girls School and a teacher at Watershed College, he played a pivotal role in shaping young minds. Additionally, Fungai served as a National Chief Examiner for Literature in English with The Zimbabwe Schools Examination Council. Beyond Zimbabwe, Fungai's impact extended to England and South Africa where he taught Accounting, Economics, Business Management, and Mathematics. His commitment to service and justice aligns with his Catholic faith. Fungai actively participates in organizations such as the Red Cross and Lions Club International. When not in the classroom, he indulges in his passions: chess, basketball, soccer, and tennis. His dedication to youth development and community service remains unwavering.
Joyce is a committed educator pursuing a Doctoral degree in Teaching and Learning with a focus on Disability and Equity at National Louis University. With a Master’s degree in Psychology of Education and a background in Special Education and Inclusive Education, she possesses a holistic approach to teaching diverse learners. Her extensive teaching experience includes implementing innovative methodologies and she supports students, demonstrating skillfulness and dedication. Proficient in various computer skills, including Microsoft Office and classroom technologies, she is dedicated to promoting inclusive practices and fostering student growth, embodying a transformative educator committed to equitable learning opportunities.
Montze is a Chicago native who grew up in the Garfield Ridge area. She grew up doing dance and gymnastics until the age of 15. Montze completed her Associate's Degree in Arts at Malcolm X College and studied at St. Xavier University for her BA in Sociology with a minor in Communications. Montze worked most of her late teen years as a swim instructor. She had a position as a case manager before joining CJA's High School Bridge Team. Montze likes to bake from time to time and enjoys exploring new places!
Mike Mason is in his twelfth year at CJA. After graduating from Boston College, he spent two years teaching with Teach For America at Hazlehurst Middle School. During his career in education, he has taught seventh- and eighth-grade math and social studies, served as a grade-level dean and now serves as the Director of Programs for CJA. In 2018 he completed his Master of Business Administration degree from Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management. He is interested in all things sports, loves learning new things, and helping students explore their passions through CJA's co-curricular programs.
Originally from Upstate New York, Jenna graduated from Siena College with a degree in Psychology and a minor in Sociology. Upon graduation, she moved to Chicago and joined the Loyola University Chicago’s LU-CHOICE program where she received her Masters in Elementary Education. Primarily working in the Archdiocese of Chicago, she taught as a general educator for six years before transitioning to a role as a learning resource teacher. Jenna is passionate about ensuring all students learn to read and received her Reading Specialist Endorsement in 2023.
Margaret is excited to join the CJA team as a fifth and sixth grade Humanities teacher. A native of South Bend, Indiana, she holds degrees in English and Philosophy from the University of Notre Dame. During her time in South Bend, Margaret tutored students through La Casa de Amistad and served as a teaching assistant for three years. Following her graduation, Margaret moved to Austin, TX to participate in a two-year Master of Education program offered by the Alliance for Catholic Education (ACE). During her time in ACE, she taught English to middle school students, spearheaded a writing club and facilitated philosophical conversations through her elective.
Anne Metzger began her career at Continental Bank as a Personal Trust Administrator. She then worked as a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) for Ernst & Young for several years where she created and delivered financial education programs for companies and coordinated with human resources and benefits personnel. She also worked closely with high net worth individuals/families doing personal financial planning. She received her Bachelors of Science in Marketing at the University of Illinois (1989) in addition to her Masters in Business Administration in Finance from DePaul University (1994). During a career break while raising her four children, she made volunteering a priority and served in numerous roles at St. Francis Xavier Church and School in addition to Nazareth Academy High School.
Kya Minor is a Chicago South Side native and joined CJA in August 2023. She went to Harold Washington College for childhood education and transferred to Denver Community College to study psychology. She has over eight years of experience in the education field. She's been a teacher assistant from pre-kindergarten to 6th grade and taught high school technology classes in 2022.
Mary Mohanan is a graduate of the Austin High School. She worked for the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago for several years as an Investment Trader. She also worked as Director of the C.B. Williams Choraleers and is a soloist for the Mercy Seat Baptist Church. Mary is a mother of one child and a grandmother of five.
Claudia earned a Bachelor's degree in International Trade in Ecuador. After college she moved to the United States with her family. She has a son who graduated from CJA as a member of the class 2019 who currently attends Cornell College in Iowa. Claudia has eagerly participated in various roles within the education system serving as a volunteer Teacher Assistant and as a member of the Parent Patrol. Furthermore, Claudia has actively engaged with fellow parents through the CJA parents book club, encouraging intellectual discussions and fostering a sense of community among families.
Megan Mortensen began her career as a reporter for The American Banker, a daily financial newspaper in New York. In 2001, she was accepted to the New York City Teaching Fellows Program and taught seventh-grade Language Arts in Brooklyn, New York. She received her master's degree in secondary education at Brooklyn College. She has a bachelor's degree in English from Villanova University and is a graduate of St. Ignatius College Prep.
Meredith Mosbacher's experience has included working at Newsweek/Daily Beast's Women in the World running their Young Women's Leadership Conference, serving as Chief Media Officer for TO THE MARKET | Survivor-made Goods and creating the curriculum for Amy Poehler's Smart Girls' Road Show. Before joining Chicago Jesuit Academy, Meredith worked as Program Director at art nonprofit, Project&. She has her MSc in Gender, Media, and Culture from the London School of Economic's Gender Institute, and concentrated in both Cognitive, Linguistic, and Psychological Sciences and Performance Studies at Brown University.
Natalie is originally from Tegucigalpa, Honduras, but grew up in the Chicago area. In 2021, she graduated from Loyola University of Chicago having majored in Drawing, Painting, and Printmaking, as well as Global and International Studies. Since then, Natalie has been working as an artist and teacher in a variety of academic and studio settings. Her favorite part of art education is getting to see her students' faces light up when they overcome an artistic challenge to create something they are proud of. Currently, she is earning her Master’s in Teaching from North Park University. When not in the classroom, she enjoys traveling, growing houseplants, and maintaining her own artistic practice.
Liz is from Cleveland, OH and graduated from Loyola University Maryland in 2022 with a Bachelor of Arts in History. She then earned her M.Ed. at John Carroll University while student teaching fourth grade Math and Language Arts in Mayfield Heights, OH. Liz is so excited to move to Chicago and to join the CJA community!
Quincy Murry joined CJA's Technology Department in July of 2022. With a decade of experience in the IT industry, he has a proven track record of success in leading teams and implementing innovative solutions. Born and raised in Chicago, he developed a love for all things tech from an early age. He is happily married with three children, and enjoys spending free time exploring new technologies and working on side projects. He is an active volunteer at his church and in the community.
Terra Nelson is a faculty member at CJA. She comes to CJA after earning a Bachelors of Arts in Education from Saint Mary's college in 2020. She then began her career as a member of the University of Notre Dame's Alliance for Catholic Education (ACE) program. During her time at ACE, she spent two years in San Antonio, TX at Saint John Berchman School teaching 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade while earning a Master of Education degree.
Cate joined Chicago Jesuit Academy as a Development Officer in 2024. Growing up in the Chicago suburbs, Cate graduated from Loyola Academy in 2017 before earning her degree in Hospitality from Indiana University. She began her career in event planning and digital marketing at PartySlate, where she developed skills in client relationship building, event strategy, and teamwork. Cate also serves her community as a volunteer tutor at Mercy Home for Boys and Girls. She is passionate about fostering equity and opportunity through education and service and is excited to bring her skills and dedication to the Development team at CJA.
Miranda Olander first got a taste for education in Chicago Public Schools when she began her year of service with City Year in 2016. She worked to tutor and mentor 3rd-grade students at Chalmer's Elementary School in North Lawndale. She has over 8 years of experience in customer service and working with students ages 5 to 25. Miranda earned her Bachelor's Degree in Communication Studies and Spanish from Monmouth College. She is so happy to have joined the CJA family and is grateful every day for the opportunity to work with CJA students and alumni.
Mary Grace O'Shea is from Grosse Pointe, MI and is a graduate of College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, MA. There, she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Spanish. In Worcester, she worked with the Boys and Girls Club and in various schools where she grew in her passion for working with young people, especially in the realm of education. She continued on to earn her M.Ed. through the Alliance for Catholic Education at the University of Notre Dame. During her time in ACE, she taught 4th grade in Denver, CO for two years, while also running a student Book Club! Mary Grace is so grateful to be part of the CJA community on the 5th/6th grade team.
Alzario is a member of CJA’s Class of 2014. He is a native of Chicago’s Westside community. He attended Loyola Academy for his high school years. He has worked in the retail industries and classrooms. He currently works on CJA's Programs Team. Alzario also enjoys coaching basketball at Fenwick High School.
Holly Pelz graduated from Elmhurst College as a learning behavior specialist. She has been working with children and adults with disabilities for over 10 years. She has experience and training in behavior analysis, as well as writing and implementing Individualized Education Programs (IEP). She is a certified Master IEP Coach and an advocate for individuals with disabilities. Holly hopes to continue helping students of all ability levels achieve their personal and academic goals as they continue their education at CJA.
Danielle Pernini joined CJA's Business and Development team in 2018. A Chicago-suburbs native, she graduated from the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign with a Bachelor of Arts in English. Danielle has served in various educational settings throughout her career - from middle school to higher education, in both for-profit and non-profit institutions. Her experience includes communications and marketing, recruitment, event planning, and fundraising
Shermar graduated from CJA in 2015 and attended Lane Tech College Prep for high school. He has a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Animation. He worked as a technician at DePaul University’s film equipment center while completing his undergraduate studies. Outside of work and academics, he enjoys movies and sports . Currently, Mr.Price is a member of the programs team as a Programs Assistant.
Will graduated from Susquehanna University with his degree in communication and a concentration in Public Relations. Since graduating, Will has lived in New York City where he worked for a youth sports and development organization focused on bringing affordable & accessible programming to diverse communities across the city. His role was split between managing on-site program operations for a partner school and improving the company’s diversity, equity & inclusion strategy and initiatives. Will is eager to be part of the CJA community and contribute to the positive impact CJA makes on students and alumni alike. In his free time, Will loves to cook, listen to music, and is a passionate New York sports fan.
Maria Ritten is a graduate of the University of Notre Dame where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Sociology. Prior to college, she grew up in Oak Park, Illinois, attending St. Giles School and Fenwick High School, both of which helped her to become interested in Catholic education. After college graduation, Maria began her career through the University of Notre Dame's Alliance for Catholic Education (ACE) Teaching Fellows program. In ACE, Maria spent 2 years in Denver teaching fifth grade and coaching volleyball at Guardian Angels School while also earning her M.Ed. in Elementary Education. Maria joined the CJA faculty in the fall of 2023 and has loved her time as a part of the CJA community.
Originally from Chicago, Maria brings over a decade of teaching experience to Chicago Jesuit Academy. She taught English in Puerto Rico for five years before transitioning back to Chicago where she worked as a teacher at UCAN, specializing in working with students with IEPs. She holds a Bachelors from Roosevelt University and is a first generation college graduate.
Brittany is a Chicago native, who graduated from Calvin University with a Bachelor's degree in Therapeutic Recreation. She has a huge passion for serving youth, starting her career as a City Year Chicago corps member, a program facilitator with Girls Inc. and most recently a program manager with iMentor. Outside of work, Brittany enjoys going for walks, coffee shops and spending time with her son.
Molly Robinson began her career working with students and families in Gary, Indiana teaching and serving as Assistant Principal of the K-12 school. She then served as Principal of a K-8 community on the southwest side of Chicago, receiving the CPS Principal Achievement Award during that time. Molly served the same network of schools also as Principal of a K-12 campus in Chicago’s Rogers Park, selected for the Chicago Principals Fellowship and obtaining her Bilingual Education Teacher Endorsement during that period. Molly also holds an Educational Leadership Administrative Endorsement through DePaul University, Master of Arts in Teaching from Dominican University, and Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Journalism and Mass Communications from the University of Iowa summa cum laude. Molly has worked with Teach For America, served as a Board Member for Helix Education, and on two Local School Councils in Chicago.
Caroline joined CJA in the summer of 2020. She completed her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Latino Studies from the University of Notre Dame in 2018. Caroline began her teaching career through the Alliance for Catholic Education (ACE) program at Notre Dame. During her time in ACE, she spent two formative years at Holy Cross Central School in Indianapolis, where she taught fourth and fifth grades, took on the role of athletic director, and earned her Master of Education degree. With experience teaching humanities, social studies, math, and science, Caroline has transitioned into a new role as an instructional coach where she supports and mentors elementary reading teachers. She is also furthering her education by pursuing a Doctorate in K-12 Educational Leadership at USC.
Mary is a graduate of the University of Notre Dame where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in both Psychology and Education, Schooling, and Society, with a minor in Gender Studies. She is currently earning her Master of Education through the University of Notre Dame’s Alliance for Catholic Education (ACE) program. She loves musical theatre, boxing, reading and traditional Irish music.
Valencia is a Columbia College Chicago graduate with a bachelor's degree in marketing communications and business. She spent over 23 years in management, operations, and as a director for companies within the Chicago area. In 2010, she started a ministry and began traveling, planting churches, developing ministry leaders, and opening bible training centers throughout the world. In 2011, Valencia graduated from theLiving Word Bible Training Center and received ministerial licensing, ordination, and apostolic affirmation through Dr. Bill Winston and Living Word Christian Center (LWCC). She also studied pastoral ministry at Living Word Christian Outreach Ministry in Illinois from 2005-2008, and received her masters and D. Div theological degrees from Kingdom University of Indiana. Valencia worked as a high school educational coach for 3 years and focused on preparing students for college. She taught kindergarten for 3 years and she loves teaching! Valencia is passionate about children and building healthy, loving, and safe spaces for as many as possible. Currently, she is studying for a master's in education with great hopes of making a positive impact in the lives of others.
Jae Rule graduated from CJA in 2013 and went on to attend Culver Academies for high school and Central Michigan University for college. He now serves as a Development Officer at CJA. Using his unique experiences and problem solving skills gained from navigating diverse communities, and his passion for mentorship and providing opportunities for those who come after him, he now works to do exactly that and to create a more equitable and fair tomorrow for students and leaders of underrepresented communities
Susan Schaefer joined the CJA faculty in 2022 after working as an attorney in Chicago. She has a Bachelor of Arts from Grinnell College, a Juris Doctor from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, and is currently working on a Masters of Education at Dominican University. Currently, Susan serves as a Social Studies, Science and Math teacher on the 7th and 8th grade team.
Billy Schauer was first introduced to Jesuit principles when he attended Saint Ignatius College Prep for high school. Those ideals had a profound impact on him and guided him towards additional Jesuit institutions. First, Boston College, where he majored in Human Development and Sociology with a minor in History. Upon graduation, he returned home and joined the Loyola University-Chicago Opportunities in Catholic Education (LU-CHOICE) program where he earned an M.Ed. in Elementary Education while teaching at a small Catholic school on the southwest side of the city. He remained at that school for eight more years, primarily teaching Social Studies, coaching basketball, and moderating the student council. During that time, he also earned an M.Ed. in English Language Teaching and Learning and an M.Ed. in Administration and Supervision at Loyola University-Chicago. He is incredibly excited for the opportunity to contribute further to the Jesuit mission through teaching at CJA!
Melissa is a licensed clinical social worker. She was born and raised on the South Side of Chicago. Melissa is a proud alumna of Mother McAuley Liberal Arts High School and attended St. Ambrose University, where she earned her Bachelor’s in Psychology and her Master’s in Social Work. Melissa previously worked at the Erikson Institute’s Center for Children and Families, providing relational therapy to children and their families on the West Side of Chicago. Melissa also has experience as a clinician at a play-based interdisciplinary pediatric clinic. She is passionate about infant and child mental health and helping children form healthy attachments to the adults and peers around them. In her free time, Melissa loves exploring all that Sweet Home Chicago has to offer and spending time with her friends and family.
Kelly Baker Tyson holds a Master of Arts in Planning, Policy and Leadership Studies from University of Iowa. She has served in public, private independent and charter schools as a general education teacher, special education teacher, and administrator, earning recognition for excellence in teaching mathematics through the St. Louis Science Center and Carol B. and Jerome T. Loeb award, participating in the Japan Fulbright Memorial Fund Teacher Program, and earning the Illinois Charter School Principal of the Year award in 2018. Kelly serves as a Board Trustee for American Youth Foundation and North Shore Country Day School. She is a former Board Trustee of Central Institute for the Deaf and former Missouri foster parent. Kelly enjoys spending time with her husband, Cleveland, and daughters Kendall and Karah.
Byron Vaca began his career working for Standard Parking, mainly in downtown Chicago, with Marriott Hotels and restaurants. While at Standard Parking, he also worked for Urban Gateways, an organization that provides cultural events for schools and park districts in Chicago and the suburbs. Byron enjoys listening to music in his free time and has played with groups in South America, Europe and Canada over the last 30 years where he shares his love for Andean music. Prior to joining CJA, Byron also served on the Gourmet Gorilla staff. He loves fixing anything that is broken and is happy to be a member of the Facilities team.
Tom Van Grinsven came to CJA in 2012 after serving as a City Year Corps Member in Boston, where he served at the Jeremiah E. Burke High School. A Chicago native and a graduate of St. Ignatius College Prep, he earned his Bachelor of Arts in English from the College of the Holy Cross where he also served as the captain of the Men's Varsity Soccer team. In addition to his work at CJA, he earned a Master of Business Administration degree at Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management in June of 2018.
Teresita Vega joined CJA's Accounting team in January 2023. She has spent all her professional career working in the nonprofit sector in different capacities in the Accounting and Finance fields both in Mexico and the USA. She holds a bachelor's degree in accounting from the University of Guanajuato, Mexico, and a Masters of Business Administration from Lewis University of Romeoville, IL.
Sandhya joined CJA after gaining valuable experience as a teacher's assistant and permanent substitute at SRP Elementary School. During her time there, she focused on teaching mathematics to a small group of 5th and 6th grade students, in addition to serving as a substitute for absent teachers. Concurrently, she pursued her passion for education by earning a Master of Arts in Teaching with a specialization in Special Education while working full-time. Aside from her teaching credentials, Sandhya holds a Bachelor of Science degree and a Master of Business Education from prestigious universities in India. These diverse educational experiences have provided her with a well-rounded perspective and a deep commitment to excellence in both teaching and business education.
Meredith Werkmeister(formally Schmitt) joined the CJA community in the summer of 2017 and has really enjoyed working with CJA students and families over the years. She graduated from Miami University in Oxford, OH, where she earned her Bachelor's degree in Middle Childhood Education with concentrations in math, social studies, and science for grades 4-9. She is originally from Cincinnati, OH.
Sara graduated from the University of South Carolina with degrees in Spanish and Psychology. Upon graduating, she served as a chaplain at her alma mater, then at the University of Georgia. Continuing in her chaplaincy work with college students, she moved to Chicago in 2017 and partnered with universities across the city, including at Loyola University and DePaul University. Her work in higher education led her to pursue a Masters of Arts in Restorative Justice Ministry at North Park Theological Seminary, and eventually led her to the High School Bridge program with CJA. Outside of work, Sara enjoys spending time with her husband and son, having friends over for dinner, biking along the lake from her Southside neighborhood, and cheering for all of Chicago’s women’s sports teams.
Anna came to CJA in 2023 after 12 years of serving as the Stateside Director of TrueLight Childcare, a small non-profit organization caring for children and their families in Ethiopia. She has a BS in Learning Foundations and Human Studies from Union University as well as a MA in Theological Studies. Originally from small town Mississippi, she and her husband moved with their 4 children to Chicago in 2015. She is excited about using her gifts to serve students in the city she has grown to love.
Dave Zalesky joined CJA as a teacher in the summer of 2017 after attaining a Masters in Education from Northwestern University. Prior to this career switch, he spent 19 years as a floor trader on the Chicago Board Options Exchange. He also graduated from Duke University with a degree in biomedical engineering. At CJA, Dave currently coordinates Student Recruitment, is the Director of Compliance, and enjoys connecting with community organizations. Plus, he occasionally proctors some lunches and recesses, and enjoys working with the students. Dave grew up in the Chicago suburbs, and currently lives in the city with his wife, two kids, and two dogs.
5058 West Jackson Boulevard
Chicago, IL 60644
(773) 638-6103